5 successful academy graduates from the Le Havre academy

#3 Lassana Diarra

Diarra is considered to be one of the game’s premier central defensive midfielders

One of the most famous names to graduate from the Le Havre academy is undoubtedly former Real Madrid, Chelsea and Arsenal star Lassana Diarra. The combative French midfielder has had a stellar senior career, but he first made his presence felt in the youth teams of Le Havre.

Diarra’s best years were at Real Madrid where he was adept at breaking up play and setting up attacks. Currently playing for Marseille, Diarra has often been compared to countryman Makelele for his amazing positional and tackling skills.

The talented French midfielder played a year for the Le Havre’s academy before becoming a first-team fixture during the 2004-05 season. Aged 31, Diarra still remains a vital part of the Marseille team and fans will be hoping that the former Real Madrid star makes a quick return from injury this season.